Therefore, as we have time, let us work the good towards all, and especially towards the household of the faith (Galatians 6:10).
Working the good is doing what is beneficial in a situation. Good is not produced from the flesh (Romans 7:18). Rather than producing the good we desire, the flesh produces what is wrong, or lacking in character (Romans 7:19). Good is therefore a result of a spiritually framed mind that produces life and peace, by fulfilling the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:4–5).
God has prepared good works for us to walk in (Ephesians 2:10). These good works are intrinsically connected to our identity in Christ and are accomplished by putting on the new man, who was created in righteousness and piety of the truth (Ephesians 4:24). This is not a new you. The new man was created when God raised Christ from the dead (2 Corinthians 5:17). When we believe the gospel for salvation (1 Corinthians 15:3–4), we are washed, regenerated, and immersed into this new creation by the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:5; 1 Corinthians 12:12–13). Thus, doing good directly expresses our identity in Christ.
We are instructed not to be overcome by wrong, but to overcome actions that lack character with good (Romans 12:21). We should leave room for God’s vengeance for those who do wrong. If our enemy is hungry, we should provide food; if he is thirsty, we should offer something to drink. Remember that kindness leads individuals to a change of mind, not wrath (Romans 2:14). If an individual persists in wrongdoing, he only heaps coals of fire upon his own head (Romans 12:19–20).
We are called to be wise in doing good and innocent regarding wrong (Romans 16:19). We must not commit wrongdoing with the expectation that good will result, as some falsely assert (Romans 3:8). Individuals who cause divisions or promote teachings contrary to apostolic doctrine are to be avoided (Romans 16:17). Such persons serve their own interests, employing persuasive language and flattery to mislead the unsuspecting (Romans 16:18).
The central commandment for Christians is to love one another as Christ has loved them (John 13:34). This love is directed toward fellow believers, as Christ demonstrated love for His own rather than for the world (John 13:1). The purpose of the commandments is to love out from a clean heart, out from a good conscience (1 Timothy 1:5).
Let us do what is beneficial for all, not throwing pearls to swine or providing for dogs—those who continue to return to their sins (Philippians 3:2). Rather, through love, let us serve other Christians so that we are all built up in the faith (Galatians 5:13). Thus, the overflow of our goodness will also impact those who are outside the Church in a beneficial manner, showing them the life of Christ is in us through our proper conduct (Philippians 2:15).
